Don Spoelma

With a life that spanned time of great change in the world around him, Donald Spoelma lived a life of purpose while holding his loved ones near. He worked hard in everything he did, and he gave everything he did his all. Don was guided by an unwavering faith, and his life exemplified what it means to be the hands and feet of the Lord he loved. It was no secret that he was married to the love of his life, and together they created a life they both cherished. Although life will never be the same without Don here, but he leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his friends and loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

During the first half of the 1940s the eyes of our nation were focused overseas as countless young American men and women had answered the call to serve during the fight for our freedoms in WWII. Those who remained stateside became familiar with rationing on common goods like rubber, paper, coffee, and various canned goods. It was during this same time that Clarence and Abolena (Boonstra) Spoelma were filled with great anticipation as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as winter arrived on the doorstep of Vogel Center, Michigan, in December of 1942. The big day finally arrived on December 5th when the baby boy they named Donald Lee made his arrival. He was one of two children as he was joined in his family by his sister, Mary Ann.

In many ways, Don was a young boy of his generation. His parents owned a dairy farm, which meant a lot of work for their family of four. They also grew pickles and string beans for market. His dad would hire local teens to pick the beans, and these teens regularly enjoyed a swim in the Clam River that ran right through the Spoelma farm. Although the teens would get just $.035 cents a pound as their pay, both Don and Mary Ann would get the full $.07 cents a pound! Don’s parents were strict disciplinarians, but the family also had plenty of fun. Don had six cousins that lived on farms near theirs, and they grew up together like siblings. As a family they attended McBain Baptist Church where Don was involved in youth group. For his schooling Don attended McBain Rural Agricultural School and graduated in 1961. After graduation he went to live with his aunt in Washington State for six months. Don later attended Northwood Institute, paying for his tuition using the money he got from the sale of his ’68 Corvette.

After graduating with an automotive aftermarket degree (quality control) from Northwood Institute in 1972, Don moved to Grand Rapids. There, he went to work for Big Dutchman in Holland. Over the years Don traveled around, installing and trouble-shooting egg handling equipment for poultry farms.

New and exciting days were in store for Don during this same time as he had met the woman of his dreams. Her name was Linda Cole, and they met when Mary Ann and George invited him to a dinner party that included Linda. Don drove her home after dinner, and it was then that he told her he would marry her. Don proved to be right as it was three years later that they were married on June 19,1976, at County Line Baptist Church in Coopersville. Following their church reception, Don and Linda enjoyed a honeymoon in New York and Niagara Falls. They also stopped to meet Linda's Grandma. The newlyweds initially settled into an apartment in Allendale during which time Don was working at Dexter Lock Company. They later bought a duplex in Allendale with Don's parents living on the other side. Eventually, Don went to work for North American Plastics Company in Holland.

In addition to his work, there were so many things that kept Don busy over the years. He attended Standale Baptist Church beginning in 1977, and faith was a cornerstone in how he lived his life every day. Don was very involved at his church, serving in regular ministry in a variety of ways. He also loved sports cars, enjoyed motorcycles, and loved his ’96 Buick Regal. Along with a few new hobbies, Don really enjoyed listening to music on Christian radio, especially Moody.

Life became a bit more challenging for Don when he underwent major back surgery in 1992. This required that he quit working, but he made good use of his time as he took an interest in watching the stock market and helping others with rides for doctor visits and errands. He also took over on the duties at home, which was such a blessing for Linda as she continued to work full time.

Generous, tidy, and impulsive are just a few of the words that describe Don Spoelma, but perhaps the word that paints the most accurate picture is faithful. He leaned on the Lord for both provision and strength each day, and no matter what came his way he counted it all as joy. A great conversationalist, Don was a longtime resident of the community he loved. He was blessed to share more than 40 years with his soul mate, and together they experienced so many of the best things that life has to offer. Deeply loved, Don will be forever remembered.

SPOELMA, Donald L.

Grand Rapids, MI

Age 78, went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 10, 2021 at Spectrum Butterworth Hospital. Don was born December 5, 1942 in Vogel Center to the late Clarence and Abolena (Boonstra) Spoelma. He was a longtime member of the Standale Baptist Church and worked many years in quality control. Don will be remembered for his love of sports cars, motorcycles, and especially his generous spirit. On June 19, 1976, he married Linda Cole. He is survived by his wife; sister, Mary Ann (George) Brzezinski; niece, Sara Brzezinski; nephew, David (Erin) Brzezinski and great nephew and niece, Caleb and Faith Brzezinski. A funeral service will be held Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 11 AM at Standale Baptist Church, 3714 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Friends may visit with family beginning at 10 AM. Masks are requested at the services. Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Salvation Army, Bible Centered Ministries or Gideons International. Please visit Don's memory page to read more of his life story, leave a memory or condolence at www.heritagelifestory.com